Melbourne is at a crossroads. The number of people who call the west home stands at close to 1 million. By 2050, it is projected to be 1.8 million, twice the size it was in 2021, and bigger than the population of Adelaide. It is the fastest population growth in Australia.

A report by The West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance, which was formed “to support, provide and carry out activities, facilities and projects for the benefit or welfare of the community in the west of Melbourne”, encapsulates what this growth means, not only to the region, the city and Victoria, but to the country.

Residents of Melbourne’s booming western suburbs have ever-growing commuting times.Credit: Joe Armao

The report says: “Australia’s economic future critically depends on ensuring that this booming population leads to a booming economy.”

In recent months, The Age has run articles highlighting and digging deep into life in the west and the issues confronting residents and businesses. Today and tomorrow, The West of Melbourne Summit, presented by WoMEDA with The Age, will be held to outline those issues and........

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